I strongly support the proposed upgrade to our local basketball facility, as it will provide Newcastle with the modern, inclusive sporting space our growing community needs and deserves.

As the parent of a representative player with the Newcastle Falcons, I’ve spent countless hours at this stadium — as have many families, schools, and organisations across the region. Unfortunately, our facility lags far behind others we’ve visited around the state. For a city the size of Newcastle, it is disappointing to have the most outdated basketball facilities in the northern region, especially given the success and dedication of our Falcons teams who proudly represent our community.

Right now, young people are being turned away from basketball and other sports simply because there is not enough space. Every child deserves the opportunity to play, train, and be active — but with only one stadium available in Newcastle, opportunities are limited. Upgrading this facility isn’t just about basketball; it’s about creating a multi-sport hub that will benefit netball, volleyball, futsal, community groups, and schools as well.

Beyond the community benefits, there is also a major economic opportunity. A modern facility would make Newcastle a destination for hosting professional sporting events, national tournaments, and showcase games. This would attract visitors from across NSW and beyond, filling our hotels, restaurants, and shops, and providing a boost to the local economy. Instead of these events bypassing Newcastle, we could finally host them — keeping those tourism dollars here in our city.

This project is long overdue. A proper indoor sports centre would ensure games aren’t cancelled due to weather, create more pathways for participation, and provide a safe, welcoming space for people of all ages. It’s not just about sport — it’s about community, connection, economic growth, and giving the next generation a chance to thrive.

I urge decision-makers to see this for what it is: an investment in the health, wellbeing, and future of Newcastle. Our community deserves a state-of-the-art facility, and the time to act is now.

Key points include:
- Access to indoor sports facilities encourages year-round physical activity regardless of weather.
- Supports physical and mental health for people of all ages and abilities.
- Offers safe spaces for youth engagement, helping prevent anti-social behaviour.

I am writing as a proud member of the Newcastle community to express my strong support for the proposed Hunter Indoor Sports Centre (HISC) development. As a parent and local resident, I see every week the limitations of our current stadium and the urgent need for a modern, accessible facility that truly meets the needs of our growing region.

The current basketball stadium has served our community for decades, but it is now outdated and no longer able to keep up with demand. Children and families deserve a safe, reliable place to play sport year-round, without having to worry about weather disruptions or whether they will even get a chance to step onto the court. Too many young athletes are already turned away simply because there are not enough courts to accommodate everyone.

The new HISC offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to solve this problem while creating a facility that serves far more than just basketball. With its capacity to host futsal, pickleball, volleyball, netball, tennis, and other indoor sports, the centre will be a true community hub—one that welcomes people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. It is not only about providing space to play, but also about building stronger connections across our community.

The benefits of this project extend well beyond sport. A modern indoor centre will encourage healthier lifestyles, keep young people engaged in positive activities, and provide clear talent pathways for those striving to play at higher levels. It will also open doors for inclusive and accessible programs, ensuring that everyone—regardless of ability—can be part of the experience. Most importantly, it will create a place where families and friends gather, where values like teamwork and resilience are nurtured, and where community pride can grow.

I believe the HISC will be a vital investment in Newcastle’s future. It represents more than bricks and mortar—it represents opportunity, inclusion, and connection. On behalf of local families like mine, I strongly urge you to support this development and help bring to life a facility that will serve generations to come.

I love playing basketball and my whole family loves playing. I want to be able to continue playing basketball but me and my friends are running out of space. We are growing and we don’t have room to grow at Broadmeadow we need to move to Lambton. My school will also use the facility.

The games won’t be cancelled due to rain on the courts. The stadium is in need of a replacement as the old one is falling apart.

Newcastle basketball stadium is very out dated and the area is in desperate need of a new updated stadium to support all future basketball players. It would be amazing to see Newcastle host a WNBL game

please see attached submission of objection